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The jade plant (Crassula ovata, C. argentea or C. portulacea), also known as the money or friendship plant, is prized for its succulent, oval-shaped green leaves, clusters of white flowers and a distinctive, attractive form. It is possible to grow a jade plant outdoors up to U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone 10, but you can grow it anywhere as a houseplant and they look somewhat like bonsai trees. Choosing or preparing an appropriate soil moisture is key to avoiding problems like root rot.

Required Soil Characteristics

The only major soil requirement that jade plants have is that the soil must drain rapidly. The jade plant, native to South Africa, has adapted to thrive in rocky, sandy soils with low fertility. Jade plants do have a tendency to become top-heavy and their shallow roots make them prone to tipping over. A slightly heavier soil that contains a greater amount of organic matter better anchors the jade plant. Jade plants can grow in acidic or slightly alkaline soils but can suffer from nutrient deficiencies or toxicity in an extremely low or high soil pH.

Appropriate Soil Mix

Commercially available potting soil mixes designated for use with cacti or succulents are generally appropriate for use with jade, although the plant may benefit from the addition of a small amount of organic matter. A suitable soil for jade could contain 1 part peat moss, 1 part organic matter and 3 parts course sand. If the jade is grown in the style of bonsai, a suitable growing medium could contain 1 part organic material such as coir or pet moss, 1 part crushed cinder or pumice and 1 part crushed quartz, decomposed granite or a similar material.

Symptoms of Soil-Related Problems

Root rot is common in jade plants and is caused by overwatering or heavy, poorly draining soil. The stems and leaves on a jade plant with root rot may darken and become mushy, leaves can drop, and the roots turn brown and mushy, rather than light-colored and firm. If left untreated, the jade generally declines and dies. Too little water or a soil mix with little or no organic matter and a limited ability to retain water can cause drought stress on the jade plant. Symptoms of drought stress include stunted growth, leaf spotting or discoloration, leaf drop and, in extreme drought conditions, death.

Additional Soil, Fertilizer and Container Considerations

Jade plants benefit from an application of a balanced fertilizer for houseplants every few months when the jade plant is actively growing. After several years of growing a jade and occasionally applying fertilizer, salt can accumulate in the soil and the jade plant will benefit from an extended watering that leaches the problematic salts out of the soil. Any container used for growing jade must have several holes to ensure excellent drainage. Jade plants also benefit from occasional repotting into a slightly larger container.